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The Best TENS Units for Relieving Pain and Discomfort

Kate Turasky
Written By Kate Turasky
Last updated: Feb 7, 2025, 06:10 AM
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best tens unit

Also known as a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation unit, a TENS unit is an electronic device that provides tiny electrical currents to stimulate muscle tissue and provide pain relief. They can also help reduce swelling, stiffness, and spasms, making them increasingly popular for those who suffer from chronic muscle discomfort.

To help you with your search, we’ve reviewed the best TENS units of 2025 based on their claimed benefits and features. The iReliev TENS unit earned the top spot on our list for its user-friendly design and versatile intensity levels. Explore these products and our buyer’s guide to find the unit that works best for your needs.

View all Contents
  • The Best TENS Units: A Buyer’s Guide
    • Battery Life
    • Intensity Levels
    • Waveform
    • Program Modes
    • Electric Stimulation Types
    • Portability
    • Accessories Included
    • Ease of Use
    • Durability
    • Safety Features
    • Display Type and Readability
  • People Also Asked
  • Elevating the Shopping Game
  • Contributors
  • Related Reviews

Our Top Picks

  • iReliev TENS Unit: Best Overall (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this TENS unit ↓
  • Auvon TENS Unit: Best for Back Pain (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this TENS unit ↓
  • Belifu TENS Unit: Most Innovative (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this TENS unit ↓
  • NueMedics TENS Unit: Most Versatile (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this TENS unit ↓

The Best TENS Units of 2025

iReliev TENS Unit

Best Overall
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The iReliev TENS Unit and Muscle Stimulator is your ticket to quick and effective relief. Whether you’re feeling pain or dealing with muscle discomfort, this product can help. Engineered with cutting-edge technology, the user-friendly design and compact nature of this device makes it a convenient solution. If you want a non-invasive way to manage pain and promote muscle recovery, you’re in the right place.

This versatile device combines Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) technologies. As a result, it lets you target specific pain points and muscle groups with precision. The intuitive interface makes it easy to customize your style of therapy. Plus, with multiple electrode pad options, you can also choose from an array of intensity levels. This product ensures that relief is just a button away, making it our top choice.

Product Pros
  • Provides effective pain relief
  • Offers multiple intensity levels
  • Easy to use at home
Product Cons
  • Can be confusing to change settings

Auvon TENS Unit

Best for Back Pain
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The Auvon TENS Unit is an ideal at-home treatment solution for pain relief. This device provides a variety of pre-set modes, including hammering, kneading, shiatsu, and more. All of these options can help alleviate discomfort caused by aching and fatigued muscles. For those looking to target particular areas of the body, this device can help. It allows for independent mode control between two channels.

This way, you can adjust the intensity level as well as the specific pain relief modes to target each area. In turn, you can experience optimal pain relief. The product comes with a USB cable, charger, user manual, pad holder, and pouch. All of these factors are covered under a 12-month warranty. With this TENS unit, you can rest assured that you are purchasing an item of high quality. Plus, you can always rely on this TENS unit for your pain management needs.

Product Pros
  • Small, portable, and easy to use
  • Adjustable intensity levels and modes
  • Long-lasting battery life
Product Cons
  • Pads can be difficult to remove

Belifu TENS Unit

Most Innovative
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The Belifu TENS Unit is an advanced and powerful muscle stimulator designed to help with pain and muscle relief. The product offers 24 preprogrammed massage modes. As a result, you will have access to a wide range of options when you need serious pain relief the most. This unit also features a non-invasive and non-drug design. Plus, you can use it on your own at home for easy and accessible pain management.

This device has an A/B dual channels mode that lets you manage the intensity settings for each channel. It also comes with ten self-adhesive conductive pads and fastening cable ties. In turn, this TENS unit acts as a secure and efficient storage solution. Additionally, the rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 20 hours of continuous use without requiring the use of traditional AA batteries. Its portability and efficiency make it easy to use anywhere at any time.

Product Pros
  • Slim, small unit with the latest technology
  • Customizable settings for individualized needs
  • Targets specific muscles with smaller pads
Product Cons
  • Too many settings for some people

NueMedics TENS Unit

Most Versatile
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The NueMedics TENS Unit is an effective pain relief device that combines TENS and PMS. These are two drug-free methods of pain relief that are used in physical therapy. They have been prescribed by doctors for decades. This device sends low-voltage electrical pulses to the skin to stimulate nerve fibers. It can effectively prevent the pain signal from reaching the brain.

Additionally, it increases the body’s natural endorphins to provide natural pain relief. The user-friendly features are extremely convenient. Plus, the LCD has a backlight that displays the targeted area you should treat. The labeled modes make it easy to operate the TENS unit as well. The package includes a controller, six electrodes, two electrode cables, a user manual, a USB, a wall charger, and a treatment point chart.

Product Pros
  • Provides targeted all-over pain relief
  • Has a large LCD Display
  • Comes with a protective case
Product Cons
  • The adhesive pads may cause skin irritation

The Best TENS Units: A Buyer’s Guide

When shopping for a TENS also known as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Unit, there are a few important features that you should consider. With the help of our comprehensive buyer’s guide, you can narrow down your options as you shop for the right TENS unit for your needs.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important factor to consider when selecting a TENS unit. Choose a model with as long of a battery life as possible. This will save you from having to recharge or replace the batteries frequently. Some models offer the option for rechargeable or replaceable batteries while others only offer one or the other. Make sure you check to see which type of battery the TENS unit requires before you make a purchase.

Intensity Levels

The power output of each TENS unit will vary depending on the intensity levels. Look for a unit that provides an adjustable range of intensity levels. Make sure they meet requirements as well.

Waveform

The waveform is the pattern generated by electrical pulses. They are emitted by the TENS unit device, and they can influence how effective the TENS unit is when it comes to treating pain. Make sure you research the types of waveforms that are offered by the TENS units you’re thinking about buying.

Program Modes

Some models offer program modes that let you customize treatments for different areas of the body. Search for models that provide different types of pain relief as well. Also, make sure you check to see if the model you are considering offers this feature as it can be helpful when you need targeted relief.

Electric Stimulation Types

Different types of electric stimulation can be used to treat different ailments. So, make sure you check to see which type is offered by the TENS unit you want to buy.

Portability

The portability of each TENS unit should be taken into account when making a purchasing decision. Look for a model that has a slim design. Ensure that it is lightweight enough so that you can easily transport the device. This will make it possible for you to use the TENS unit wherever you are when you need it most.

Accessories Included

TENS units come with accessories, like electrode pads, chargers, and carrying cases. These are necessary for the proper use and overall care of the device. Make sure you check to see which type of accessories that TENS unit comes with as well as how many accessories come with it.

Ease of Use

It is important to choose a user-friendly model. Make sure it is simple to operate so that you can get the most out of your device without experiencing frustration or confusion. Take some time to research customer reviews. Make sure you select the option that has intuitive controls, an easy-to-read display type, and overall readability.

Durability

A durable TENS unit should be able to withstand frequent use without any problems. It shouldn’t cause any malfunctions over time either. Be sure to read reviews from previous customers for insight into the durability of the device. Also, test out the unit in person if possible before you make a purchasing decision.

Safety Features

Many modern models have safety features, like auto shut-off timers or light indicators. These can alert you when the intensity level needs to be adjusted. By doing so, the safety features can help avoid potential damage caused to skin tissues as a result of overstimulation.

Display Type and Readability

You don’t want to experience difficulty when trying to understand how your device works. This can happen if you’re working with a small or hard-to-read display screen. So, check out the type of display that a TENS unit has before you buy it.

People Also Asked

What is a TENS unit?

A TENS unit is an electrotherapy device that uses electrodes, amplifiers, and batteries to treat musculoskeletal pain. TENS is an abbreviation for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation.

How does a TENS unit work?

TENS units work by sending electrical pulses through electrodes placed on the skin. Those electrical pulses stimulate nerve fibers. In turn, they initiate a release of endorphins and enkephalins, which are natural painkillers that can provide you with relief from pain.

Is a TENS unit safe to use?

TENS units are generally safe to use when you utilize them as directed. It is important to follow the usage directions that come with the unit. Also, consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

What conditions can a TENS unit treat?

TENS units can be used to treat chronic pain conditions, including arthritis, neck pain, back pain, and sciatica. It can also be used to treat acute pain such as muscle strains, sports injuries, and post-operative pain.

How long do I need to use a TENS unit?

The length of time that you should use a TENS unit will vary depending on the condition you are trying to treat. Your response to the treatment will impact the timeframe suggestions as well. But generally speaking, it is recommended that you use the unit for 30 minutes per session several times per day.

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Contributors

Kate Turasky
Kate Turasky
Recovery & Pain Relief
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